Scotland started slowly against both Italy and Wales.

They were punished in Rome’s monsoon despite getting to within a score of Italy, and then got themselves out of jail at the end in Cardiff.

If they start slowly against France, the game will likely be over very quickly.

Fabien Galthie’s side have stormed out of the blocks in every match so far, managing six tries in the opening quarter across their three games.

Ireland were 22-0 down by half-time in Paris, Wales conceded after 90 seconds, and Italy were 19-0 behind before the half-hour mark.

Every team wants to start every game quickly, but is never as simple as that. The opposition is gunning for the same explosion from the blocks, as a starter.

But it is clear Scotland cannot afford to build into the game, they need the sort of start they got against England when they raced 17-0 ahead.

It is unlikely France will be as charitable as England were, but beginning with the same accuracy and intensity is so important if they are to take the title fight to the final weekend.